Skip to main content

Full text of "Acton's improvements on The tailor's transfer;"

See other formats


TT  520 
.fllS 
Copy  1 


DE  COURSEY,  LAFOURCADE  &  CO. 

IMPORTBHS   AND  JOBBKBS   OP 

FOREIGN    AND    DOMESTIC 

CLOTHS,  CASSIHERES.  YESTINGS,  COATINGS, 

TAILORS'  TRIMMINGS, 

&R3®   MSN   &M®   ©@Y§'   WI&IS   ©IMIGS&ILILYs, 

Have  now  a  fall  stock,  including 


At  their  Hall,  No.  621  Chestnut  Street, 
PHILADELPHIA. 

THOMAS  N.  DALE  &  CO. 

IMPORTERS  AND  MANUFACTURERS  OF 


No.    610    Chestnut    Street, 
PHILADELPHIA. 


thomas  N.  dale,       "j  17  Warren  Street,  New  York, 

george  Richmond,   I  90  Wegt  Third  street  Cincinnati, 

JOHN   R.  HARRIS,  C  „  _        _  _.      .  ..      _.      . 

Joseph  H.  brown.    J  9  Rue  Neuve  st-  Augustin,  Paris. 

GEORGE    GRANT, 

Manufacturer  and  Dealer  of 

<SliT§9  ?®it!!SMli  ©0®©! 


3STo.    eXO     CHESTNUT     STREET, 

PHILADELPHIA. 

Constantly  on  hand  a  large  assortment  of  Shirts,  Collars,  Neck-ties,  Hosiery, 
Gloves,  &c,  &c. 

We  would  invite  the  attention  of  country  merchants  to  our  superior  cut  of  Shirts. 
@-  All  orders  executed  with  despatch. 


ACTON'S  IMPROVEMENTS 


THE  TAILOR'S  TRANSFER; 


COMPLETE  DEMONSTRATION  OF  THE  SCIENCE  OB 


tllHIIT  ClTTili 


IYY\). 


^AX5JY\)      (JVO 


No.  73r  Chestnut  Street,  S.  E.  corner  of  Eighth, 


P  H  I  L  A  D  E  L  1'  II I  A  : 

KING  &  BAIRD,  PRINTERS,  No.  607  SANSOM  STREET. 

1862. 


y 

4 


Entered  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1862, 

BY  WILLIAM  R.  ACTON,  &  CO., 

In  the  Clerk's  Office  of  the  District  Court  of  the  United  States,  in  and  for 
the  Eastern  District  of  Pennsylvania. 


X  -2-  /-2-  3 


' 


INTRODUCTION. 


In  presenting  this  work  to  the  trade,  we  do  so  with 
the  full  and  certain  conviction  of  its  superiority,  it 
being  our  crowning  effort,  and  the  triumph  of  fifteen 
years  devotion  and  labor  for  the  perfection  of  a  system 
of  actual  measurement,  adapted  to  all  the  requirements 
of  the  profession.  The  success  of  our  former  works  is 
proved  beyond  controversy,  by  the  fact  of  their  almost 
universal  adoption  l>y  gmHQflMfr^  most  prominent 
tailors  on  this  continent,  who  would  on  no  considera- 
tion exchange  them  for  any  others  now  in  use.  We  offer 
this  to  your  careful  and  candid  consideration,  void  of 
all  invidious  dllusions  to  other  plans  or  methods,  many 
of  which  doubtless  have  their  merits  and  adherents. 
The  fundamental  principles  embodied  in  this  work,  are 
clear  in  their  conception,  and  the  method  complete  in 
its  consummation.  The  instrument  being  so  simple, 
and  at  the  same  time  so  perfect  in  its  construction  as 
to  be  susceptible  of  no  further  improvement,  the  entire 
arrangement  as  set  forth  in  the  following  details  are 
based  on  purely  common  sense  principles.  We  counsel 
nothing  to  be  done,  without  giving  a  substantial  reason 
for  so  doing.  In  the  perusal  of  this  work,  will  be  found 
many  important  principles  and  suggestions,  not  met 
with  in  any  work  heretofore  published  either  in  Europe 
or  America.  Without  subjecting  our  readers  to  the 
annoyance  of  a  long  and  tedious  introduction,  we  submit 
it  to  them,  in  the  full  confidence  of  its  being  received, 
and  appreciated  as  its  merits  deserve. 


4  ACTON'S     GARMENT     CUTTING. 

DIRECTIONS  FOR  APPLYING  THE  INSTRUMENT  TO  THE  BODY. 

It  is  important  to  have  the  Measuring  Instrument  properly 
adjusted  to  the  Body. 

This  is  done  by  bringing  it  close  under  the  left  arm  from  the 
front,  while  you  bring  the  long  strap  horizontally  from  one  arm- 
pit to  the  other,  passing  it  round  in  front  of  the  right  arm  to  the 
short  strap  on  the  shoulder,  where  you  will  buckle  it  as  tight  as 
the  client  wishes  Ms  coat  to  fit. 

See  that  the  brass  plate,  on  which  are  placed  the  upper  and 
lower  pivots,  is  perpendicular  with  the  front  of  the  arm,  and  that 
the  strap  comes  up  close  under  the  arm,  without  caring  whether 
the  scye  reaches  there  or  not. 

DIRECTIONS  FOR  TAKING  THE  MEASURE. 

1.  Measure  round  the  Breast. 

2.  "  "         Waist. 

Now  apply  the  instrument  as  above  directed,  and  as  represented  on  figs. 
A  and  B,  Plate  1. 

3.  Measure  from  one  to  two. 

4.  Continue  to  3,  or  natural  Waist. 

5.  "  4,       length  of  Waist. 

6.  "  5,  "  Skirt. 
1.   Find  measure  on  the  strap  at  2. 

8.  "         "  "  "        1. 

9.  Bring  the  measure  from  the  upper  pivot  over  the  most  prominent  part  of 

the  shoulder  to  2. 

10.  Bring  the  measure  from  the  upper  pivot  over  the  lower  point  of  shoulder- 

to  6  on  the  strap. 

11.  Length  of  waist,  in  front. 

12.  Measure  from  lower  pivot  to  2. 

13.  "  "         "  "         3. 

14.  "  "         "  "         4. 

You  are  now  done  with  the  instrument  in  taking  measures  for  a  dress, 
frock,  sack,  or  overcoat. 

15.  Measure  from  the  centre  of  Back  to  the  shoulder  joints  for  width  of  Back. 

16.  Continue  to  the  Elbow. 
IT.  "  "      Wrist. 

18.  Measure  round  the  Elbow. 

19.  "  "         Wrist  or  hand. 

Note. — For  drafting  Military  Coats,  take  the  following  additional  measures: 
Measure  from  lower  pivot  to  bottom  of  stock,  and  around  Neck. 
For  an  over-coat  or  sack,  a  measure  must  be  taken  round  the  Hips,  and  use 
as  hereafter  directed. 


Plate  I 


Fis.  A 


I'iii  15 


4k* 


V  S  Dim.1  ft  Son  •  Lith 


- 


r 


s 


10  ACTON'S     GARMENT     CUTTING 

FIGURE  No.  1— PLATE  III.    Back  of  Dress  or  Frock  Coat. 

Line  A.  Edge  of  cloth.  Apply  the  measure  from  the  starting  point  1  ; 
continue  to  length  of  waist,  and  extreme  length  of  coat.  Project  lines  B 
and  C  at  right  angles  with  line  A.  Go  out  from  line  A  on  line  B  two 
inches,  to  point  4 ;  thence  to  point  1,  draw  line  D.  Apply  your  third  and 
fourth  measures  on  this  line,  from  point  1  to  points  2  and  3,  for  depth  of 
scye  and  natural  waist.  From  point  2,  project  line  E,  at  right  angles  with 
line  D.  Apply  the  seventh  measure  from  point  2  to  point  8,  on  line  E. 
(Whilst  applying  this  measure,  mark  point  6,  where  the  tenth  measure 
terminates,  on  the  strap.)  Then  apply  the  fifteenth  measure,  from  point  2 
to  point  1 ;  thence  draw  lino  H,  for  width  of  back.  From  point  1  to  point 
8,  draw  line  F.  Point  9,  at  junction  with  H  and  F,  is  the  centre  of  back 
scye.  The  width  of  back  at  the  neck,  the  back  scye,  and  waist,  are  governed 
by  fashion  or  taste,  as  are  curves  I,  J,  and  K. 

Line  G  is  raised  about  £  inch  from  point  1,  at  junction  with  line  I. 

FIGURE  No.  2.— PLATE  III.    Forepart  of  Dress  or  Frock  Coat. 

Lay  Back  No.  1  on  cloth,  as  seen  in  diagram,  so  as  to  get  the  forepart 
out  to  the  best  advantage.  Then  mark  the  back  scye  and  upper  portion  of 
side  seam  by  the  back,  in  order  to  keep  the  correct  position.  Then  project 
line  A,  which  is  a  continuation  of  line  E,  of  the  back.  From  point  2,  apply 
your  seventh  measure  on  this  line  for  point  1,  (which  is  the  upper  pivot)  ; 
continue  out  to  point  4,  being  half  the  circumference  of  the  breast,  as  given 
by  measure  No.  1.  From  point  1  to  point  3,  is  one-fourth  the  seventh 
measure.  Draw  line  F  at  right  angles  with  line  A,  above  and  below.  Go 
down  on  line  F,  from  point  1  to  point  2,  six  inches,  for  the  lower  pivot. 
(Which  points  occupy  the  same  relative  position  on  the  cloth  that  the  pivots 
on  the  measuring  instrument  do,  when  applied  to  the  body.) 

Project  lines  B  and  C  upward,  at  right  angles  with  line  A.  Apply  the 
eighth  measure,  from  point  3  to  point  1,  of  the  back,  for  length  of  shoulder 
strap.  Project  line  I  at  right  angles  with  line  B,  (which  is  one-half  the 
distance  from  point  3  to  point  1,  and  designated  by  point  5.)  Continue  line 
F  of  the  back  to  point  1,  the  upper  pivot :  this  line  gives  the  upper  point 
of  side  seam.  Form  curve  G  as  per  diagram,  extending  the  curve  front  of 
line  F  about  three-quarters  of  an  inch,  to  allow  for  seams.  Lay  point  1,  of 
back,  (as  seen  in  position  No.  2,)  to  line  B.  Then  apply  ninth  measure, 
(as  seen  in  plate  2,)  moving  the  back  right  or  left,  as  this  measure  may 
require,  allowing  §  of  an  inch  for  seams  ;  while  there,  mark  curve  D  by  the 
back.  Curve  E  is  obtained  by  application  of  the  tenth  measure,  (as  seen  in 
plate  2,)  from  point  1  to  point  6  of  the  back,  (position  3,)  allowing  A  of  an 
inch  for  shoulder  seam  ;  then  form  curve  H,  as  per  diagram. 

Apply  the  twelfth,  thirteenth  and  fourteenth  measures,  as  per  Plate  2,  and 
bring  the  back  in  accordingly,  (as  seen  in  position  4,)  and  form  curve  M. 
Apply  eleventh  measure  for  length  in  front.  While  the  back  is  in  this  posi- 
tion, apply  measure  No.  2,  for  size  round  the  waist,  adding  one  inch  for 
seams  and  making  up.  From  point  4,  on  line  A,  go  out  three  inches,  for  turn 
of  breast ;  also  go  out  on  line  C  one  inch.  Go  up  two  inches  from  lower 
point  of  side  seam  on  curve  M,  and  project  line  0  to  point  6.  Then  form 
curves  N,  0,  P,  and  K,  as  per  diagram. 

Note.— Line  Q  is  placed  on  forepart  as  aguide  in  getting  the  spring  of  a  Dress-coat  Skirt,  »nd  is  drawn  from 
star  (*)to  tbo  lower  point  of  »ide  seam.   The  starlssitimled  midway  between  upper  point  of  side  seam  and  line  F. 


12  ACTON'S     GARMENT     CUTTING. 


FIGURE  No.  3.-PLATE  III.    Frock-Coat  Skirt. 

Line  A,  which  is  the  base  line,  is  drawn  about  an  inch  and  a-half  from  the 
edge  of  cloth,  to  allow  for  turning  in.  Line  B  is  drawn  at  right  angles  with 
line  A.  Go  out  on  this  line  from  point  1  to  point  2,  the  width  of  forepart  at 
the  bottom,  allowing  for  width  of  lappell,  and  about  i  inch  fullness ;  then 
draw  line  C  at  right  angles  with  line  A,  from  point  2.  Go  up  from  point  2  to 
point  3  one-fourth  the  net  measure  of  the  lower  portion  of  forepart,  without 
the  lappell,  to  point  3.  Thence  to  point  1  draw  line  D.  Lay  the  side-body 
on  line  D,  as  represented,  and  draw  curve  E,  giving  it  the  same  inclination 
as  a  continuation  of  the  side  seam,  adding  one  and  a-half  inches  for  plait. 

For  the  length,  take  that  of  the  back  skirt,  from  the  hip  line  ;  put  it  all 
round  from  the  waist,  and  thus  form  curve  F. 


FIGURE  4.-PLATES  III  and  IV.    Sleeve. 

Note. — In  drafting  this  Sleeve,  it  is  necessary  to  have  the  forepart  cut  out,  as  it 
will  be  seen  that  it  is  drafted  by  the  scye. 

In  drafting  this  Sleeve,  the  first  thing  is  to  measure  the  circumference  and 
diameter  of  the  scye.  For  the  circumference,  apply  the  back  to  the  lower 
point  of  shoulder,  (as  in  position  3 ;)  then  measure  round  the  scye.  Apply 
half  this  measure  from  centre  of  back  scye,  at  point  9,  along  curve  H,  to  find 
point  7.  For  diameter — measure  across  the  scye,  from  point  8  to  9.  Draw 
line  A  at  sufficient  distance  from  edge  of  cloth,  to  admit  of  the  round. 

Project  line  B  from  point  1,  at  right  angles  with  line  A.  Go  from  point 
1  to  point  2  the  diameter  of  the  scye.  Thence  project  line  C,  at  right  angles 
with  line  A  ;  go  out  on  this  line  one  half  the  circumference  of  the  scye,  to 
point  3.  Lay  point  T,  of  forepart,  on  point  3,  and  the  lower  point  of  shoulder 
to  point  4,  on  line  B,  (as  represented  by  forepart  No.  1.)  While  in  this 
position,  mark  curve  D  by  the  scye. 

Place  line  F,  of  the  back,  on  a  line  with  A,  (as  seen  in  position  No.  2.) 
Then  bring  curve  H  of  the  scye  to  rest  on  line  B,  (as  seen  in  position  No. 
3.)     While  the  back  and  forepart  remain  in  this  position,  mark  curve  F. 

You  now  have  a  sleeve  that  would '  fit  the  scye,  provided  you  wished  to 
sew  it  in  perfectly  plain.  But  as  the  present  fashion  requires  from  2  to  3 
inches  fullness,  you  will  mark  curve  E,  according  to  style,  as  seen  on  draft. 
Apply  your  measure  across  the  back,  and  continue  to  elbow  and  wrist,  for 
length  of  sleeve.  Go  in  from  point  5  to  6  about  three  inches,  for  bend  of 
sleeve ;  thence  to  the  elbow  draw  line  G.  Project  line  II  at  right  angles 
with  line  G.  Apply  the  elbow  and  wrist  measures,  and  form  line  I,  as  per 
diagram. 

The  under  side  sleeve  at  top  is  about  half  the  circumference  of  the  scye, 
and  marked  according  to  draft. 

Collar  and  Lappells  are  cut  according  to  the  patterns;  the  width  being 
given  in  inches. 


14  ACTON'S     GARMENT     CUTTING 


FIGURES  6,  7  and  8.— PLATE  V.    Surtout  or  Over-Coat. 

The  difference  existing  between  Over-Coats  and  Dress  Coats,  conies  from 
the  last  being  worn  single,  while  over-coats,  also  termed  great  coats,  or  top 
coats,  are  worn  over  another,  and,  therefore,  must  differ,  not  only  in  style, 
but  also  in  size. 

Back  Figure  6  is  increased  in  every  respect.  All  its  lengths  are  more ;  that 
of  the  waist  being  from  one  to  two  inches,  while  the  extreme  length  is 
increased  from  four  to  eight  inches. 

The  width  is  also  increased  half  an  inch,  (as  seen  by  line  D.)  The  back  is 
otherwise  drafted  as  an  ordinary  back,  always  working  from  the  dotted  line, 
but  cutting  by  the  solid  line  D. 

The  Forepart,  figure  7,  is  laid  down  in  the  usual  way.  The  dotted  lines 
and  curves  represent  the  Dress  Coat,  while  the  solid  ones  represent  the  differ- 
ence made  for  an  over-coat,  a-half  inch  being  added  across  the  shoulder,  and 
the  scye  hollowed  out,  so  that  it  will  measure  an  inch  and  a-half  more.  The 
breast  and  waist  measures,  being  taken  over  the  coat,  are  applied  accordingly. 

The  Lappell  is  all  of  a  piece,  with  the  forepart,  but  is  sometimes  cut 
separately. 

Sleeve,  figure  8,  is  drafted  to  suit  the  scye,  according  to  the  principle  here- 
tofore laid  down.  The  only  difference  being  the  absence  of  the  fore-arm  scam, 
as  in  this  case. 


FIGURES  9  and  10.— PLATE  V.    Straight  or  Loose  Sack. 

Back,  No.  9.  The  dotted  lines  will  show  the  difference  between  this  and 
an  ordinary  coat. 

The  width  of  waist  at  line  B,  and  bottom  at  line  C,  is  the  same  as  width 
of  back  between  the  shoulders. 


FIGURE  10.-PLATE  V.    Forepart. 

The  shoulder  and  breast  is  drafted  as  an  ordinary  coat,  except  that  the 
lappell  is  all  of  a  piece,  with  the  forepart.  But  one  of  the  balance  measures 
is  used  for  the  side  seam,  which  is  the  thirteenth,  taken  from  the  lower  pivot, 
and  when  applied,  will  bring  the  back  in,  as  represented  by  the  dotted  lines 
at  point  6.  The  side  seam  will  then  be  sprung  out  to  point  1,  (which  is  the 
difference  between  the  half  circumference  of  the  breast  and  waist  measures,) 
as  for  example :  A  person  measuring  36  breast  and  30  waist,  one-half  the 
breast  measure  would  be  18  inches,  the  waist  15  ;  the  difference  would  be  3 
inches,  the  amount  required  to  go  out  from  point  6  to  point  7,  in  this  case. 
It  should  be  observed  that  the  same  quantity  should  be  added  from  the  dotted 
line  of  the  dress-coat  on  the  front,  in  order  to  give  it  a  perfect  balance. 

The  sleeve,  drafted  a*  in  figure  8. 


16  ACTON'S     GARMENT     CUTTING. 

FIGURE  11.— PLATE  VI.    Dress-Coat  Skirt. 
Draw  line  A  one  inch  and  a-half  from  edge  of  cloth,  for  pleet;  get  the 
length  by  the  back  skirt     Thence  bring  line  Q,  of  the  forepart,  as  seen,  on  a 
line  with  A ;  from  this  junction  project  line  B  to  the  lower  point  of  forepart, 
and  form  curve  C,  and  lines  D  and  E,  as  per  diagram. 

FIGURE  12.-PLATE  VI.    Frock  Sack. 

The  back  and  upper  portion  of  forepart,  as  well  as  the  side  body,  are 
drafted  on  the  same  principles  as  those  represented  in  figures  1  and  2,  of 
Plate  3.  The  skirt  and  front  of  forepart,  as  also  the  lappell,  are  of  a  piece. 
The  line  across  the  waist  is  continued  in  for  height  of  back  part  of  skirt. 
Then  lay  the  side  body  on  this  line,  as  seen  in  model,  and  while  there,  draw 
your  line  for  spring  of  skirt  on  a  range  with  the  side  seam.  Form  your  bottom 
curve  by  the  back  skirt.  The  pockets  may  be  put  in  the  side  or  pleet, 
together  with  an  outside  breast  pocket.     The  sleeve  as  heretofore  explained. 

FIGS.  13, 14, 15,  16  and  17.-PLATE  VI.    Double  and  Single-Breasted  Vests. 
Figures  13,  14,  15,  16  and  11,  Plate  6,  are  double  and  single-breasted  Vests, 
with  collars  attached.     The  measures  taken  for  these  Tests  are,  the  breast, 
waist,  length,  and  scye  measure. 

FIGURE  15.-PLATE  VI.  Forepart. 
Line  A,  edge  of  cloth.  Come  in  from  line  A  one-fourth  the  breast  meas- 
ure, and  draw  lino  B  parallel  with  line  A.  Make  the  bottom  of  the  cloth  on 
line  B,  a  pivot,  from  which  sweep  curve  C,  from  line  A  to  B,  less  the  width 
you  wish  to  make  the  top  of  back.  Go  down  on  line  A  from  curve  C,  one 
half  the  scye  measure  ;  then  draw  line  D  at  right  angles  with  line  A.  Come 
up  from  line  D,  on  line  A,  one-sixth  the  scye  measure,  and  square  in  line  E. 
Come  in  on  this  line  one-sixth  the  scye  measure,  thence  form  curve  G.  Line 
F  is  one-half  the  distance  from  line  A  to  B,  less  one-half  inch  nearer  B.  Then 
draw  line  F  to  a  junction  with  curve  C,  for  shoulder  point.-  Come  in  on  line 
D  from  line  B,  one  and  a  half  to  two  inches.  Thence  to  the  bottom  of  vest, 
draw  line  H.  Go  up  on  line  A  from  two  to  three  inches  and  form  curve  K, 
and  neck,  as  per  draft. 

FIGURE  16.-PLATE  VI.    Back. 

Line  L  is  a  continuation  of  line  D,  of  the  forepart.  Project  line  Q  from 
lower  point  of  side  seam  from  line  A,  and  go  out  on  these  lines  one-fourth 
the  breast  measure,  adding  three-quarters  of  an  inch.  Thence  draw  line  M 
for  centre  of  back.  Go  out  on  line  L,  from  line  A,  one-fourth  the  scye 
measure.  Then  draw  line  N  above  and  below  to  a  junction  with  line  O, 
making  this  junction  a  pivot.  Thence  sweep  curve  P  from  front  point  of 
shoulder  for  height  of  back.  (For  a  round  shouldered  person  it  will  be  ne- 
cessary to  increase  the  length  of  back.)  Come  in  from  line  M,  on  curve  P, 
the  width  of  back  at  the  top,  which  is  generally  from  three  to  three  and  a 
half  inches.  Thence  to  a  junction  of  lines  D  and  F,  draw  line  0.  Form 
curve  R,  as  per  diagram,  and  draft  collar,  figures  IT,  as  per  model. 

FIGURES  13  and  14.-PLATE  VI.    Double-Breasted  Vest. 
Figures  13  and  14  represent  a  double-breasted  rolling-collar  vest.     In  this 
vest  you  will  come  in  from  line  H,  from  two  to  two   and  a  half  inches,  for 
lappell,  and  increase  the  length  of  collar  accordingly. 


18  ACTON'S    GARMENT    CUTTING 


FIGURE  18.-PLATE  VII.    Overcoat. 

The  forepart  and  skirt  of  this  coat  are  of  a  piece  ;  the  body  being  drafted, 
as  described  in  figure  ?.  It  will  be  seen  from  the  model,  that  the  slash 
under  the  arm  is  wider,  and  extends  below  the  waist.  The  amount  taken  out 
of  this  slash  should  be  added  to  the  side  seam,  as  shown  by  the  solid  curve. 
The  net  measure  being  the  dotted  one,  as  it  would  appear  without  the  slash. 

The  side  seam  should  be  cut  half  an  inch  shorter  than  the  back  curve, 
and  stretched  out  from  the  notch  down  ;  the  spring  of  skirt  being  on  a  range 
with  side  seam. 


FIGURE  19.— PLATE  VII.    Collar. 

Figure  1 9,  the  collar,  is  drafted,  as  seen  in  model. 

For  the  back  and  sleeve  of  this  coat,  use  figures  6  and  8,  of  plate  5. 

FIGURES  20  and  21.— PLATE  VII.    Paletot  or  Business  Coat. 

The  back,  figure  20,  is  the  same  as  described  in  figure  6,  plate  5. 

The  body,  figure  21,  is  drafted  as  an  ordinary  single  coat,  with  the  excep- 
tion of  the  side  body  and  slash,  which  are  regulated  according  to  the  directions 
for  figure  18.     The  forepart  and  skirt  also  being  of  the  piece. 

FIGURE  22.-PLATE  VII.    Vest  with  Collar  cut  on. 

The  gusset  may  be  set  in  at  the  shoiilder  seam,  or  added  to  the  back.  To 
draft  this  vest,  select  a  scale  corresponding  with  the  breast  measure. 

Figures  23  and  24  are  also  drafted  by  a  scale. 


ACTON'S     GARMENT     CUTTING. 


FIGURE  25.— PLATE  VIII.    Forepart  of  Rolling  Collar  Vest. 

This  Vest  is  drafted  by  the  Tape  measure,  as  are  figures  15  and  16,  but 
differs  in  some  respect  as  will  be  seen.  Lines  A,  B,  H,  E,  F,  and  D,  and 
curve  C,  are  obtained  in  the  same  manner  as  in  figure  15,  plate  6.  From 
point  3  to  point  4,  is  one  half  the  scye  measure.  From  point  4  to  5,  and 
from  point  5  to  6,  is  one-sixth  the  scye  measure.  From  point  12  to  11,  is 
from  two  and  a  half  to  three  inches.  Thence  to  point  1  draw  line  K.  Apply 
waist  measure  on  lower  portion  of  forepart,  and  form  curve  J  accordingly. 

The  collar  is  drafted  according  to  model. 

FIGURE  26—  PLATE  VIII.    Back. 

Lines  L,  M,  N,  and  Q,  are  obtained  in  the  same  manner  as  described  in 
figures  15  and  16,  of  plate  6.  Measure  on  forepart  from  point  4  to  point  10, 
and  apply  it  on  line  M  of  back ;  from  point  3  to  point  4,  for  length  of  back. 
Should  the  client  be  round  shouldered,  this  length  must  be  increased.  From 
point  4  to  point  5,  is  from  three  to  three  and  a  half  inches.  From  point  2  to 
point  6,  on  line  M  of  back  is  the  same  as  from  point  4  to  point  3,  of  fore- 
part.    Then  form  curves  0,  R,  and  P,  as  per  draft. 

FIGURES  27,  28,  and  29.— PLATE  VIII.    Garrick. 

This  garment  is  drafted  by  a  scale  corresponding  with  the  breast  measure  ; 
the  length  aud  width  being  given  in  numbers.  The  length  may  be  increased 
if  desired.     Otherwise  it  is  drafted  according  to  model. 


FIGURE  30.— PLATE  VIII.    Long  and  Short  Gaiter. 

Select  scale  corresponding  with  the  seat  measure. 

'I'lir  shaded  part  of  figure  30,  Plate  8,  is  a  model  for  long  gaiters,  button- 
ing straight  on  the  line  A,  fiy  being  left  on  the  under  part  at  centre  line. 

The  measure  for  long  gaiters  are : 

Full  length;  full  width  at  top ;  full  width  at  calf  and  ankle ;  oblique  width, 
round  of  the  foot,  aud  bottom  width. 

The  white  part  of  fig.  30,  is  a  model  of  short  gaiters.  They  button  on  the 
instep  and  must  be  tight  round  the  foot. 

The  measures  are : 

Length,  width  between  points  5  and  19,  then  between  6  and  20,  after- 
wards the  round  of  foot  between  20  and  20,  and  lastly  the  whole  width 
between  5  and  29. 

Note.— For  this  style  of  draft,  we  are  indebted  to  an  old  work,  by  Com- 
paing,  of  Pari.- 


22  ACTON'S     GARMENT     CUTTING. 

FIGURES  31,  32,  and  33.— PLATE  IX.    Short  Sack. 
This  stylo  of  Sack  makes  a  neat  and  graceful  business  Coat.     They  are 
drafted    by  a  scale  corresponding  with   the   breast  measure.     Or   may  be 
drafted  by  the  tape  line,  on  the  principle  laid  down  in  the  foregoing  figures. 

FIGUEE  34.— PLATE  IX.    Trowsers. 

These  Trowsers  are  drafted  by  a  scale  corresponding  with  the  seat  measure, 
which  is  taken  in  the  usual  way,  viz.,  around  the  lower  portion  of  the  body 
at  the  thickest  part. 

The  other  measures  are  taken  as  usual. 

Go  out  from  edge  of  cloth  at  top  and  bottom  twenty-two  numbers  of  the 
scale,  (which  is  one  fourth  the  seat  measure)  to  find  line  A.  Come  up  on 
line  A,  for  the  crotch  eighty  points  of  the  scale,  for  the  top  one  hundred  and 
four  points.  From  these  points  draw  lines  E  and  B,  at  right  angles  with 
line  A.  Come  in  on  line  B  twenty  points  of  the  scale,  on  line  E  twenty- 
two  points;  and  on  curve  D  at  the  bottom  twenty  points,  and  form  line  C. 
Go  out  on  line  E  from  point  80  to  point  5,  five  numbers,  and  continue  to 
point  8,  eight  numbers,  form  curves  D,  F,  G,  H,  I  and  J,  as  per  model ;  this 
completes  the  forepart. 

For  the  back  part :  continue  line  E  from  point  80  to  point  12,  twelve 
numbers  of  the  scale.  Come  in  from  point  104,  on  line  B,  four  numbers, 
and  continue  thirty-two  numbers,  to  the  point  so  designated  ;  and  from 
eighty,  on  line  E,  and  equal  distance  form  curve  O.  At  the  bottom  come  in 
twenty-six  points.  From  point  4,  on  line  B,  go  up  eight  numbers.  Draw 
line  M  from  point  8  of  forepart,  to  point  8  of  back,  and  form  curve  L,  to 
intersect  J,  as  per  model.     Form  curves  K,  N,  and  0,  as  per  draft, 

This  draft  can  also  be  made  by  a  tape  measure,  to  wit :  Line  A  is  one-fourth 
the  seat  measure,  from  edge  of  cloth.  From  0  to  80,  is  the  measure  of  the 
inside  seam.  To  point  104  is  the  balance  of  the  outside  measure.  From  104 
to  20  is  one-fourth  the  waist.  From  80  to  22  is  one-fourth  the  seat  measure. 
From  O  to  20,  at  the  bottom,  is  from  G  to  8  inches.  From  point  80  to 
points  5,  8  and  12,  is  obtained  as  follows:  for  example,  (take  the  scat  mea- 
sure and  the  measure  of  the  thigh  at  the  thickest  part,  horizontally.  Tften 
subtract  the  thigh  measure  from  that  of  the  seat,  say  38  seat,  and  22  thigh. 
The  half  of  which  would  be  19  and  11,  the  difference  being  8  inches.  This 
is  divided  between  the  fork  of  the  forepart  and  back,  according  to  figures  5,  8 
and  12.  The  excess  being  given  to  the  back  part.)  From  point  104  to 
point  4,  is  about  one  and  a  half  inches,  and  from  point  4  to  point  8,  three 
inches.  From  point  4  to  point  32,  is  the  balance  of  waist  measure,  not  dis- 
posed of  in  the  forepart,  allowing  for  the  slash  and  seams.  Apply  the  hip 
measure,  as  seen  by  dotted  lines,  and  add  from  one  and  a  half  to  three 
inches  more  than  the  measure  taken. 

The  width  at  the  bottom  is  regulated  by  style  or  taste.  Form  curves 
according  to  model. 

FIGURE  35.-PLATE  IX.    Cape. 

This  figure  is  given  to  show  Hie  principle  upon  which  a  Cape  may  be 
regulated  to  suit  any  style  or  kind  of  Coat, 


Jaal2 1863 


\ 


ACTON'S  GARMEX  T  CUTTING 


OBSERVATIONS. 

The  figures,  on  Plate  2,  representing  the  application  of  the  Instrument 
and  measures  to  the  body,  will  require  but  little  comment;  the  simplicity  of 

the  arrangement  at  once  presenting  itself,  by  reference  to  the  preceding 
explanations.  To  insure  success,  it  is  very  necessary  that  the  measures 
should  be  taken  with  uniformity,  in  regard  to  their  tension,  and  applied  with 
care  and  correctness. 

We  will  next  call  your  attention  to  Plate  3,  Forepart  of  Dress  or  Frock 
Coat.  In  this  fig.  we  wish  you  to  notice  particularly  the  upper  point  of  the 
Bide  .-earn — a  point  of  great  importance — the  plan  of  obtaining  which,  is  one 
of  our  greatest  improvements.  To  some,  this  may  appear  insignificant ;  yet, 
upon  examination,  it  will  be  found  that  it  is  of  vast  importance  to  the  proper 
set  of  a  Coat,  and  when  not  observed,  will  cause  the  best  cut  Coat  otherwise 
to  wrinkle  under  the  arm  anil  .--wing  oil'  at  the  waist;  the  back  will,  at  the 
same  time,  have  the  appearance  of  Vicing  too  short  for  the  side  body — all  of 
which  is  the  effect  of  this  seemingly  unimportant  point.  We  will  now 
explain  the  cause  and  its  remedy  : 

When  the  side  body  is  cut  to  range  with  the  back  scye,  there  is  no  allow- 
ance left  on  the  upper  point  of  side  body  for  seams,  and  in  making  up, 
you  are,  of  necessity,  compelled  to  drop  the  back  from  the  position  in  which 
it  was  drafted,  to  make  up  the  deficiency  :  which  process  raises  the  forepart 
a-half  inch,  thereby  shortening  the  depth  of  the  scye  the  same  amount,  causing 
the  evil  effects  before  mentioned.  Whereas,  when  the  point  is  lengthened, 
as  per  draft,  the  back,  wThcn  joined  to  the  forepart,  docs  not  change  the 
position  of  either  portion,  as  in  the  other- case,  leaving  them,  when  made 
up,  in  the  same  position  as  in  the  draft,  the  scye  coming  to  its  proper  place, 
and  the  line  for  the  bottom  of  scye  preserved,  without  alteration  from  the 
elevating  or  depressing  of  cither  portion  of  the  coat,  from  want  of  space  for 
seams. 

It  will  be  seen  that  our  principle   for  obtaining  the  upper  shoulder  point, 
It-regulating,   giving   the    position  equally   as   true    for   a   crooked    as 
a  straight   man,  as  also  the   upper  point  of  the  neck,  on  the  back ;  in  fact, 
every  point  varies  itself  to  suit  the  subject  measured. 

The  idea  has  been  advanced,  that  no  rule  would  cut  a  garment  to  fit  every 
person.  Put  we  do  contend  that  this  rule,  properly  used,  will  itself  give  all 
the  variations  required  to  fit  an}-  human  creature.  It  is  self-regulating  and 
certain,  and  a  plan  failing  to  accomplish  this,  is  unworthy  to  be  called  a 
system. 
In  this  plate,  we  also  give  the  draft  of  a  sleeve  on  purely  scientific  principles. 


24  ACTON'S     GARMENT     CUTTING. 

We  call  your  especial  attention  to  it.  All  systems  give  a  draft  for  a  sleeve, 
and  each  and  every  one  is  based  upon  the  same  erroneous  principle ;  the 
evil  effects  of  which  often  present  themselves  after  they  have  been  put  in  ;  the 
Coat  being  a  complete  fit  before  their  addition,  clearly  showing  where  the 
fault  existed  ;  and  when  the  Coat  is  not  entirely  spoiled,  it  generally  draws 
across  the  muscles  of  the  arm,  or  from  the  front  or  back  point  of  the  sleeve. 
In  this  draft,  we  have  effectually  remedied  this  evil,  being  able,  by  the  prin- 
ciple laid  down  in  this  work,  to  cut  a  sleeve  that  will  fit  any  scye  whatever, 
without  detriment  to  the  general  fit  of  the  garment.  This  plan  is  entirely 
new  and  original,  never  before  having  been  presented  to  the  trade  ;  in  fact,  it 
is  the  only  principle  ever  set  forth  that  was  capable  of  being  clearly,  scien- 
tifically, and  satisfactorily,  demonstrated.  It,  moreover,  has  the  benefit  of 
great  simplicity,  being  easily  comprehended.  It  is  by  far  the  most  import- 
ant improvement  in  this  work,  and  will  be  of  great  benefit  to  the  trade. 
Considering  the  amount  of  Coats  yearly  ruined  by  the  want  of  a  proper 
plan  to  regulate  the  sleeves  that  would  otherwise  be  stylish,  graceful  and 
elegant.  It  will  be  observed  that  the  back  and  forepart  bear  the  same  relation 
to  the  sleeve,  when  drafted  on  the  counter,  that  they  do  when  the  garment 
is  finished  and  on  the  wearer,  thereby  proving  the  correctness  of  the 
principle. 

We  are  more  extended  in  uur  remarks  on  this  plate,  in  consequence  of 
the  whole  fundamental  principle  of  the  system  being  therein  involved. 

We  furnish  in  connection  with  this  work,  a  set  of  scales,  which  are  simply 
a  division  of  the  breast  or  hip  measures,  in  forty  eight  equal  parts.  You  will 
notice  that  some  of  these  drafts  are  laid  off  by  a  scale,  viz. :  Vests,  Pants, 
Sacks,  Garricks,  and  Gaiters.  The  Pants  and  Vests,  although  drafted  by 
a  scale,  are  explained  so  that  the  same  draft  can  be  procured  by  the  inch 
measure,  so  that  the  cutter,  while  drafting  by  the  scales,  will  appreciate 
their  merits,  from  his  knowledge  of  the  fact,  that  their  foundation  is  actual 
measurement. 

Persons  often  say,  we  use  the  proof  measure  in  our  division  rule,  and 
it  must  come  right.  But  let  it  be  remembered  that  we  draft  by  the  proof  meas- 
ures, thereby  proving  as  we  draft. 

Whatever  may  be  said  in  favor  of  rules  regulated  by  a  system  of  divi- 
sion, whether  from  long  use  and  endearment,  or  actual  belief  in  their  merits, 
it  must  still  be  admitted  that  they  are  entirely  without  merit,  only  as 
they  approximate  to  that  only  sure  method — actual  measurement. 

There  are  certain  styes  of  garment  that  must  be  cut  by  divisions  5  for 
instance — Cloaks,  Garricks,  and  loose  garments  generally.  A  scale  is  conve- 
nient, if  we  wish  to  increase  or  reduce  a  pattern  :  this  is  done  by  first  throwing 
the  pattern  into  a  square,  then  apply  your  scale,  and  number  the  points 
accordingly.  This  process  will  enable  you  to  draft  a  garment  of  the  same 
style  by  (he  scale,  either  larger  or  smaller,  as  may  lie  required. 


lAAAAAAAAAAi 


■A.OTOHST'S  "WORKS. 
EETAIL    PEICES. 

PRICE. 

Acton's  Late  Improvement  on  the  Tailor's  Transfer  (complete) $10  00 

Subscribers  to  his  former  works  will  be  furnished  at 7  00 


ACTON'S  VEST  CHART. 

An  expeditious  and  certain  method  for  cutting  Vests,  simple  in  its 
construction,  and  readily  understood;  Elegantly  lithographed  in 
colors  on  enameled  r>ri.->tol-Board,  with  full  printed  instruction... 


3  00 


ACTON'S  CHART  FOR  PANTALOONS. 

The  printed  directions  accompanying  this  work  will  enable  any  person 
of  ordinary  capacity  to  cut  and  fit  without  trouble,  it  also 
combines  all  the  qualities  of  the  Vest  Chart,  together  with  its 
simplicity,  and  is  handsomely  lithographed  in  colors  on  enameled 
Bristol-Board 


3  00 


ACTON'S  CLOTHEIRS'  GUIDE. 

This  is  an  admirably  arranged  chart  for  cutting  Coats,  with  full  and 
complete  printed  instruction,  a  work  well  adapted  for  the  use  of 
Clothiers 3 


(10 


ACTON'S  GUIDE  FOR  CUTTING  BOYS'  JACKETS. 

This  is  a  handsomely  lithographed  chart,  and  is  universally  considered 
the  best  thing  ever  gotten  up,  for  cutting  Boys'  Jackets,  full 
printed  instruction  accompany  this  work 3  00 


ACTON'S     NEW     AND    IMPROVED     LADIES'   DRESS 
CHART. 

This  work  is  founded  upon  entirely  new  principles,  and  is  simple  and 
accurate  in  its  construction:  It  will  enable  any  lady  to  cut  her 
own  dresses,  or  to  cut  for  others.  All  the  information  necessary 
is  given  on  the  chart,  which  is  elaborately  gotton  up  in  colors 
on  enameled  Bristol-Board 3  00 

A  liberal  discount  made  to  parties  taking  all  of  the  above  works. 

We  also  furnish  a  complete  set  of  scales  on  Bristol-Board  for 1  00 

"We  have  constantly  on  hand,  Squares,  Five-quarters,  Rulers  for 
Pants,  Tape  Measures,  &c,  &c. 

Clarenback  &  Heintisch's  Sheers  and  Points  also  for  saK 


TT    520 

Pie 

Copy    1 


LEONARD  BENKERT, 

No.  716 
Chestnut  St. 

/7 


PHILADELPHIA. 

A  large  assortment  constantly  on  hand  and  made  to  order,  at  short  notice. 

CLARENBACH   &   HERDER, 

No.  634  Arch  Street,  3  doors  below  Seventh,  South  Side, 

PHILADELPHIA. 


MAOTJFACTTTRERS  OP  PATENT 

CAST  STEEL  SHEARS  &  SCISSORS, 

OF  EVERY  DESCRIPTION,  AND  FOE  ALL  USE. 

S3"  Always  on  hand  a  large  assortment  of  Silver  Plated  and  Britannia  Ware,  Fine  Table  and 
Pocket  Cutlory,  Fancy  Hardware,  Razors  of  the  best  makers,  Razor  Strops  and  Hones,  Spring 
Punches,  French  Cook  Knives,  and  a  great  variety  of  Fancy  Articles. 

PATENT  SHEARS  GROUND  AND  SET.    CUTLERY  REPAIRED, 

Factory  No.  235  Baoe  Street.  TEEMS  CABH. 

G.    THURGALAND, 


No.    22    So-utla    Sixth    Street, 

Next  to  ike  Commercial  Hotel, 

iRi2aiL&iDiio9'ipiaii&* 


INFALUBU  MODE  OF  MEASUMNG  THE  HEAP. 


No.  1.  Round  the  head. 
"    2.  From  forehead  to  neck. 
"    3.  From  ear  to  ear,  across  the  crown. 
"    4.  From  ear  to  ear,  across  the  forehead. 


LIBRARY  OF  CONGRESS 


I 

0  014  061  866  4